Image source: bbc.com
Hearts have confirmed that St Johnstone winger Josh McPake will join the club under freedom of contract in the summer on a three-year deal, while manager Derek McInnes revealed the club may attempt to fast-track the arrival of Uganda forward Rogers Mato from his current January move.
Hearts Seal McPake Summer Deal While Exploring Accelerated Mato Transfer
McPake, who has scored 15 goals in 27 appearances for Championship leaders St Johnstone this season, has agreed a three-year contract at Tynecastle that will commence when his current deal expires. The prolific winger represents the top scorer in the Scottish Championship and will provide attacking reinforcement for Hearts’ squad ahead of next season’s campaign.
The club announced a pre-contract agreement for 22-year-old Mato earlier this week, with the Uganda international having netted 15 goals for Macedonian club Vardar this term. However, McInnes expressed hope that the transfer could be brought forward to this month, stating it would be beneficial given Hearts’ current injury concerns and squad requirements during the crucial title race period.
McInnes praised Mato’s commitment to joining Hearts, revealing he spoke with the forward before his departure for the Africa Cup of Nations. The manager described how Mato demonstrated extensive knowledge about the club and expressed eagerness to complete the move, calling him a brilliant young talent who will contribute significantly to the team’s future success.
Hearts currently lead the Scottish Premiership by six points ahead of both Celtic and Rangers with 16 games remaining, having accumulated 50 points at this stage of the season. McInnes acknowledged the remarkable achievement while noting the club’s smart approach from boardroom level and the quality of players in the dressing room, emphasising that Hearts deserve their current position on merit.
The Premiership leaders face potential midfield problems for Sunday’s clash against champions Celtic, with Beni Baningime suspended following his red card against St Mirren and Cammy Devlin suffering an injury that McInnes described as not looking promising. Stephen Kingsley, Ageu and Oisin McEntee remain among the players currently sidelined through injury.
